Jets GM and Coach Reportedly at Odds Over Key Decisions

Rumors suggest power struggle between Darren Mougey and Aaron Glenn over personnel moves and coaching hires

Mar. 17, 2026 at 2:33pm

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According to veteran New York sports radio host Mike Francesa, there are growing tensions between New York Jets general manager Darren Mougey and head coach Aaron Glenn. Francesa reports that Mougey has been exerting more power over Glenn, blocking the hiring of defensive coordinator Wink Martindale and pushing for the trade for quarterback Geno Smith despite Glenn's preference for Kirk Cousins. The power dynamic between the two has reportedly shifted, with Mougey now making key decisions over Glenn's objections.

Why it matters

The reported rift between the Jets' top football decision-makers could spell trouble for the team's on-field performance and long-term stability. A lack of alignment between the GM and head coach is often a recipe for dysfunction, and it raises questions about who is truly in charge of the team's direction.

The details

Francesa claims that Jets owner Woody Johnson has given Mougey more authority over Glenn, a shift from the team's initial messaging that Mougey would be Glenn's "sidekick." One example of Mougey flexing his power is blocking the hiring of defensive coordinator Wink Martindale, with the team instead hiring Brian Duker. Mougey also reportedly pushed for the trade for quarterback Geno Smith, while Glenn preferred Kirk Cousins.

  • The reported tensions between Mougey and Glenn emerged in March 2026.

The players

Darren Mougey

The New York Jets general manager who has reportedly been exerting more power over head coach Aaron Glenn.

Aaron Glenn

The New York Jets head coach who is reportedly at odds with general manager Darren Mougey over key personnel decisions.

Woody Johnson

The owner of the New York Jets, who has reportedly given Mougey more authority over Glenn.

Wink Martindale

The defensive coordinator that Mougey reportedly blocked from being hired by the Jets.

Brian Duker

The defensive coordinator the Jets hired instead of Wink Martindale.

Geno Smith

The quarterback that Mougey reportedly pushed to trade for, against Glenn's preference for Kirk Cousins.

Kirk Cousins

The quarterback that Glenn reportedly preferred over Geno Smith.

Frank Reich

The offensive coordinator who Francesa believes is waiting in the wings to potentially replace Glenn as Jets head coach if the team struggles.

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What they’re saying

“If Mougey's in charge, let him come out and be in charge. Don't hide it. Don't pin everything on Aaron Glenn. If Aaron Glenn is just the coach and he's not making any personnel decisions, let's know that. Let's see where we are right now as we go forward and put the praise and the blame where it belongs.”

— Mike Francesa, New York sports radio host

What’s next

The Jets' ownership and leadership will need to clarify the power dynamics between Mougey and Glenn, and determine if the reported tensions can be resolved or if changes need to be made.

The takeaway

The reported rift between the Jets' general manager and head coach is a concerning development that could undermine the team's on-field performance and long-term stability if not addressed. The organization must act quickly to align its top football decision-makers or risk another lost season in New York.